There are simple strategies for knowing & correcting attic mold for those suffering from allergies, asthma, & sinusitis, and the elderly. The more common cause of attics mold is poor ventilation. Attic mold pictures are from a recent mold remediation project done in April & May of this year. It’s amazing how much difference one little window can make when it comes to controlling mold growth.
If your attic (or wall cavities) are not well-ventilated, you’ll see a buildup of moisture there that can spread through the house. The mold will grow anywhere there is moisture or any other conditions that allow air to freely flow through the area. You can start by sealing & cleaning the walls and floor cavities using a vapor barrier. This isn’t always sufficient, so here are additional ventilation corrections you can do to get rid of mold:
* Seal & Clean Ventilation Improper ventilation is probably the number one cause for indoor mold growth in attics. There are numerous ways to seal & clean indoor mold vents including using an exhaust fan on the ceiling, removing mold stains from tiles and baseboards, scrubbing with vinegar & water, or applying mold killer. Another option is to use bathroom fans in the bathroom and kitchen areas. Fans suck in excess moisture, which keeps the area dry. If bathroom fans aren’t installed properly, they could also be pulling in hot humid air from the outside & causing condensation inside the house as well.
* Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts Dampness is another issue that allowing mold to grow in attics. Improper drainage makes sure mold has easy access to spores and also makes it easier for them to travel through drains. If you’re experiencing problems with damp areas around windows and doors, make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. This could be a sign of an even bigger problem.
* Proper Ventilation Another overlooked problem is inadequate ventilation in the attic. Any condensation on the ceiling or walls is unacceptable, but there’s more to it than that. You need to ensure that any moisture that accumulates on the ceiling or walls is removed from the attic as soon as possible. It’s often tempting to put blinds up in the attic for the time being, but that won’t solve the problem. If condensation is allowed to build up in the attic, you risk the growth of mildew, moss, mold, and other allergens that are difficult to get rid of. A good rule of thumb is to have the attic vented at least 12 inches from the outside of the wall cavities.
* Mold Remediation Once you’ve taken care of the major problems, it’s time to focus on mold remediation. If you’re dealing with mildew, you’ll likely want to hire Mold Remediation. Remember, mildew growth can’t be seen, so be sure to take photos of the inside and outside of the space and keep them for your records. If you suspect that you have an existing mold issue, call your local health department and ask for advice. Some common signs of mold growth include wood rot, damp areas where water might seep in, evidence of mildew growth on the attic ceiling sheathing, or if you feel a musty odor in the attic.
* Excessive Ceiling Sheathing If your attic mold problem is caused by inadequate ventilation, you’ll want to address this issue before you attempt attic mold remediation. A qualified certified mold inspector will be able to identify whether or not you have excessive moisture buildup and will be able to advise you on how to fix it. In some cases, the source of moisture may be a broken pipe. If this is the case, the inspector will give you advice on how to correct the problem, and he or she will remove the blocked drain accordingly.
* Unnatural Warmth and Cold When there is excessive natural or heat, there is often a strong potential for attic mold growth. If this is the case, you might consider hiring a certified mold remediation specialist to come out and test the roof. He or she will be able to determine whether or not the temperature is causing damage to the interior of your home. If so, the specialist will recommend a solution that will either eliminate the problem or at least inhibit it from becoming worse. If you’re experiencing cold weather, the same is true, but with more of an inclination to worsen if you don’t remedy the problem soon.